Newly-crowned Australian Darts Masters champion James Wade was involved in a physical altercation at Sydney Airport on Sunday, reportedly confronting robbers who attempted to snatch his trophy just hours after his historic victory .
The 43-year-old Englishman, known as “The Machine,” had clinched his first-ever World Series of Darts title on Saturday, defeating home favourite Brody Klinge 8-5 in Wollongong . But celebrations took a dramatic turn as Wade prepared for his return flight to England.
According to sources, the trophy—which Wade described as “fantastic” and “long overdue”—was targeted by would-be thieves at the airport . The incident reportedly sparked a confrontation, with the ten-time TV title winner defending his hard-earned prize .
Earlier in the weekend, Wade had dominated the tournament with a staggering 112.73 average in his opening whitewash of Tim Pusey . His victory in the final came with a 101.62 average, cementing his place in the record books .
Wade, whose children had long urged him to “get a trophy,” was visibly emotional after the win. “It’s been a while since I won something,” he said. “I’m absolutely made up, and to win the title in Australia is even better” .
The trophy theft attempt adds a bizarre twist to what should have been a straightforward victory lap. No official statement has been released by Wade’s camp or Australian authorities at this time.
Wade’s triumph in Wollongong marked his first World Series crown after previous final appearances, including a 2022 defeat to Jonny Clayton . Whether the airport incident will affect his upcoming schedule remains unclear.